Action Africa Institute

WHO WE ARE

Action Africa Institute

We have been promoting Training in Development and Humanitarianism for over a decade now.

This has been necessitated by the need to reduce increasing gaps between the skills needed by Development professionals and humanitarian aid workers in Humanitarian situations. We do this by inquiring, Teaching and advising on leading Transitions in the Humanitarian sector. We are Passionate about humanitarianism, and place it at the Heart of what we do. Action Africa Institute (AAI) is an international organization with the mission of making development and humanitarian work more effective. This is achieved through developing and implementing high-quality consultancy projects and delivering innovative capacity building solutions to United Nations (UN) agencies, governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) worldwide.



Diploma in Food Security and Nutrition in Humanitarian Emergencies

Natural disasters as well as complex emergencies at times can have significant effects on household food

security and nutritional status of the affected population. Assessing such impact and understanding the

coping mechanisms of different affected social groups is needed to target, design and implement

appropriate strategies that will protect and promote good nutrition and household food security

throughout relief and rehabilitation responses. Activities in this area of study strive to strengthen capacity

within governments and local institutions to design and implement such strategies and to improve

collaboration among various organizations dealing directly with nutrition concerns in emergency relief

and rehabilitation.

The course content will examine food insecurity and nutritional deficiencies as they appear in different

types of humanitarian emergencies. The course discusses the profiles of international relief organizations

that are involved in nutrition and food assistance are presented and common nutrition and food assistance

interventions in emergency settings. Factors contributing to food insecurity are considered and various

response modalities, including in-kind assistance and cash-based approaches, are discussed.

Modules

• Introduction to food security and Nutrition in Humanitarian emergencies

• Roles, responsibilities and key stakeholders in humanitarian assistance

• Social-political factors surrounding emergencies

• Approaches to Nutrition Situation Analysis in Crisis

• Strategies to support & strengthen food security and restore livelihoods

• Food aid/assistance

• Selective feeding programs

• Nutrition and care at household level

• Management of food and nutrition responses in emergency

• Monitoring and evaluation of food and nutrition responses in emergency

Organizers



Course Overview

Diploma in Monitoring and Evaluation

In order to meet standards, organizations demand higher accountability for development-project funds

and transparency regarding a program’s results. It’s understood now that you’re more likely to receive

future funding if you can demonstrate how a program performs. That’s why employees who have

specialized Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) skills are in demand. This key knowledge helps to assess a

project or program’s performance and its lasting impact.

Project monitoring has the task of establishing sufficient controls over a project and to ensure that it stays

in track in terms of achieving its objects and serves purposes for the various stakeholders. Project

monitoring is an integral part of day to day management of projects. It provides information by which the

project implementers can identify problems, and solve them or assess progress

Thematic areas

Module 1: Introduction to M&E Principles and Concepts

• Understand M&E basic principles

• Apply the principles of results-based management

• Use practical considerations and key steps in developing M&E systems

Module 2: Designing program monitoring systems

• Deciding on key aspects of the program to monitor

• Identifying data sources

• Designing sound data collection and collation tools

• Developing standard operating procedures (SOPs) for managing data

Module 3: Analyzing and reporting data for decision making

• Developing a data analysis strategy

• Selecting data analysis methods

• Presenting analyzed data

• Common pitfalls/errors in analyzing data

Module 4: Developing a data communication strategy for stakeholders

• Identifying program stakeholders and their information needs

• Selecting appropriate communication tools for different audiences

Organizers



Course Overview


Diploma in Grants Management

Successful organizations have a solid grant management program that starts long before any

grant is awarded. Grant management includes strategic planning, efficient grant design, program

development and effective tracking, and having sufficient resources to smoothly manage the

process. Grants management is a key activity in Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), State

Corporations and other Donor funded institutions. Most teams aim to use limited resources

optimally and efficiently to achieve maximum impact.

This course is designed to build the confidence and skills of participants on the best practices and

nurture essential skills of effective grants management i.e., monitoring your project,

accountability, complying with grant regulations and how to prevent your organization from the

challenges both legal and administrative that result from poor grants management.

Units

1. Introduction: Fundamentals of Grants Management

2. Grant Management Cycle, Roles, Responsibilities and Requirements

3. Types of Grants, Applications and the Obligating Documents

4. Grants Lifecycle

5. Elements of Grants Application

6. Grants Budgeting

7. Accounting Essentials for Grant

8. Compliance in Grants Management

9. Internal Control Systems in Grants Management

10. Fundraising, budgeting and costing

11. Grants reporting

Organizers




Diploma in Project Planning and Management

Course Overview

Project management is evolving with time. With the numerous tools, technologies, applications,

and frameworks that are shaping project management for the modern world, it is important to

stay ahead. Project managers need to consistently learn new techniques and best practices to

optimize their work processes and project cycles.

This course will help equip learners with the skills, techniques, and understanding required for

successful project management careers in both the public and private sectors of the economy.

Through a combination of theory and unique, hands-on learning experience, the program

allows learners to enhance their management skills and gain a professional edge in the job

market.

Modules

Unit 1: Principles of Project Management

Unit 2: Elements of Management in Projects

Unit 3: Project Leadership & Governance

Unit 4: Environmental Impact Assessment & Analysis

Unit 5: Project Design, Planning & Implementation

Unit 6: Project Financing & Finance Management

Unit 7: Project & Strategic Management

Unit 8: Entrepreneurship & Project Management

Unit 9: Project Management Consultancy

Unit 10: Project Monitoring & Evaluation Reporting

Unit 11: Computer Application in Project Management



Diploma in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene

There is need to empower practitioners working in emergency and development areas on the

fundamentals of WASH. It provides a detailed explanation of the principles of planning,

designing and implementing activities that are aimed at improving sustainable and equitable

access to domestic water supply, sanitation services and improve hygiene behaviors and

practices. It provides an understanding of the increasing number of complexities in the WASH

sector, providing the latest contextual and technical skills that will help in planning, designing

and implementing sustainable activities as well as programs within the framework of the

fundamental principles of the WASH sector including Public Health, water and sanitation

services.

Aligned with the SDG 6 of the vision 2030, the course focuses on all aspects of WASH

interventions and allows a direct link between theory and reality on the ground.

Course Objectives

By the end of the course learners will be able to

• Identify and analyze context-specific challenges and plan tailor-made WASH

interventions to improve sustainable access to WASH services and facilities in complex

institutional environments, both in the field of cooperation and humanitarian aid

• Conduct a context-specific public health risk analysis of inadequate WASH services and

design appropriate prevention strategies

• Conduct a systematic analysis of environmental, social and technical problems, both in

urban and rural contexts, and design appropriate intervention strategies.

• Confidently implement the wide range of advanced WASH intervention tools: from

specific technical approaches in water supply and sanitation to current approaches

developed in the field of hygiene promotion, as well as sectoral assessment tools.

Modules

I. Introduction to WASH

II. Water sanitation and Hygiene in Emergencies

III. Public Health

IV. Urban WASH services

V. Water provision, control and Pollution



Diploma in Effective Communication in Emergencies

Effectively communicating information during emergencies or threats remains a significant and a

highly difficult challenge. Such Communication not only needs to be carefully planned as well as

implemented but must also be properly integrated with emergency management activities and

operations. Emergency events at times present a unique challenge to those involved and those

who involve themselves in life saving exercises to ensure that the affected populations have access to basic amenities.

When people are affected and in emergency situations, they need information to be able to

communicate with each other and those who are helping them. When humanitarian actors have the right information they will be able to make informed decisions, faster provision of services

hence keeping safe the affected people and their families.

At the end of the course, the learners should be able to;

• Grasp skills on how communication can be used to support disaster-affected people and

program objectives;

• Acquaint self on assessment of the information needs of the community and decide through

which channel(s) of communication to reach them;

• Have expertise on how to create and adapt information and messages to maximize impact;

• Be able to develop a communications strategy;

• Be able manage and respond to feedback from the community.

Thematic Areas of Study

1. Introduction to public safety communications

2. Crisis intervention-emergency communication

3. Customer service & ethics in emergency situations

4. Emergency management

5. Emergency services procedures

6. Handling the mainstream media and social media

7. Stress and wellness management



Diploma in Nutrition and Dietetics in Emergencies

In emergency situations, changes to the diet and to the health environment can cause a rapid deterioration

of nutritional status. Malnourished individuals can no longer maintain adequate bodily functions such as

growth, pregnancy, physical work and resisting and recovering from disease. This has negative effects on

health status and in its severe forms can lead to death. Malnutrition results from a complex combination

of factors. Thus, a broad-based approach is required to address malnutrition. These factors work on a

number of levels affecting populations, households and finally individuals.

This course aims at equipping public health and humanitarian response persons with appropriate skills

and techniques required to maintain good nutrition for vulnerable individuals during emergencies, in-

order to reduce the risk of nutrition faltering and be well prepared for appropriate nutrition response in

emergencies. The course is appropriate for health service providers, disaster response workers, relief

agency staff, public health practitioners and other professionals involved in disaster response and risk

reduction.

Course Objectives

I. Define common nutritional deficiencies in emergencies and specify how these should be

corrected

II. Assess population nutrition status and household food security

III. Determine how a food assistance should be targeted, provided and monitored

IV. Discuss the dynamics of food assistance in the emergency context, including policy factors, key

organizations involved in provision of food assistance, and current food crises

Modules

• Introduction to Nutrition in Emergencies

• Common Nutrition Related Problems in Emergencies

• Causes of Malnutrition in Emergencies

• Vulnerability and Targeting In Emergency

• Methods of Nutrition Assessment in Emergency

• Methods of Nutrition Assessment in Emergency

• Nutrition Information Systems in Emergencies

• Food Aid

• Community Based Therapeutic Care

• Livelihood Support in Emergencies

• Monitoring and Evaluation in Nutrition in Emergencies

• Humanitarian Assistance and Standards



Diploma in Supply Chain Management

The Diploma in Supply Chain Management offers students a deep understanding of the world of supply

chain management, business to business marketing among others. This sector of business is a field that

involves managing the practice of buying and selling goods. The importance of this sector is just

beginning to become evident, as it is becoming prevalent and understood that the selling and buying

practices of a corporation can detrimentally or positively affect is economic growth. It is important that

companies continue to keep overhead costs down to promote profit; thus, leading to increased demand for

professionals in this field.

A diploma in Supply Chain Management will allow students to garner an education that is focused on

economic development and business management skills. To have within this field students will be trained

in business development and strategies related to growth as well.

Modules

• Introduction to Supply Chain Management • Research Methods • Financial and Cost Accounting • Principles of Negotiations

• Supply Chain Management • Stores Management and Stock Control

• International Purchasing and Supply Management • Principles of Logistics Management

• Purchasing and Supply Law



DIPLOMA IN HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Human resource management practices influence employee skills through the acquisition and

development of a firm’s human capital. Recruiting procedures that provide a large pool of

qualified applicants, paired with a reliable and valid selection regimen, will have a substantial

influence over the quality and type of skills new employees possess. Providing formal and informal training experiences, such as basic skills training, on-the-job experience, coaching,

mentoring, and management development can further influence employees’ development.

The Diploma of Human Resource Management will introduce learners to a field of human

resource management - and its growing importance to the success of the organization’s overall performance and success. The course introduces students to the theories, ideas, controversies and

challenges involved in managing human resources in contemporary work organizations. The

course also focuses on the link between an organization’s overall business strategies and an organization’s` HR strategies, policies and practices.

Course Content

The course has four modules in the following thematic areas and the fifth module is a

dissertation in an area of Human Resource Management

1. Introduction to Human Resource Management

2. Strategic Human Resource Management

3. Employee resourcing

4. Recruitment and selection

5. Human Resource Development

6. Gender issues in Human Resource

7. Personnel Management



DIPLOMA IN HUMANITARIAN LOGISTICS

Whether its people suffering, goods needing to be delivered, reduced communications

infrastructures, or major disruption of physical infrastructure, humanitarian organizations work

by providing assistance to global crises as quickly and effectively as possible.

The objective of the Diploma in Humanitarian Logistics is to enhance the operational

humanitarian logistics response capacity for logistics staff in field operations. The training will

directly contribute to avoid the waste of resources through careful handling and storing of

humanitarian cargo. In addition, participants will understand basic principles and procedures of

procurement to minimize the risk of fraud or incorrect sourcing. It is based on a typical full

supply chain cycle and follows the logical supply chain structure. The course starts from the

concept of sourcing, with focus on procurement concepts and moves downwards in the chain

until its end, by discussing the distribution process with a sector-neutral coverage. In order to go

through this end-to-end overview, the content builds clear relations between logistics concepts

and the operational context, adapting logistics to the trainees.

Thematic areas

• Responding to emergency situations

• Needs assessment/ situational analysis for the individual humanitarian situation

• Principles of Logistics Management

• Logistics Planning for emergency supplies

• Information and Communication protocols for emergency situations

• Humanitarian partners, cooperation and management

• Budgeting for logistics and reviewing goods availability against humanitarian

needs of the operation

• Fleet Management

• Storage, Warehousing and stock controls

• Procurement and Contracts Management

• Transport and Logistics Operations

• Movement of people and supplies in emergency situations

• Risk management in the supply chain

• Emerging and Global Trends in Humanitarian Logistics



Diploma in Monitoring & Evaluation of

Nutrition & Food Security Projects Monitoring and evaluation of agricultural projects for their impact on household food

insecurity and nutrition is important given the

paucity of data documenting successes and

failures in such projects, and because possible

adverse effects in such projects need to be

identified and addressed rapidly. Recognizing,

however, the lack of capacity and/or reluctance

of some agriculture project managers and

planners to incorporate nutrition considerations

in their project planning or their management

information systems, a feasible alternative

approach is needed – one capable of meeting agriculture-nutrition M&E objectives without

encumbering project managers.

This program aims to improve the

effectiveness of Monitoring and Evaluation of

Food Security and Nutrition programs

through identifying and disseminating successful

methods, tools and practices. This will, in turn,

improve the monitoring and evaluation skills of

the personnel implementing food security and

nutrition programs in the implementing

agencies.

Course Outline

Introduction to M&E

• Definition of Monitoring and Evaluation

• Why Monitoring and Evaluation is important

• Key principles and concepts in M&E • M&E in project lifecycle

• Complementary roles of Monitoring and Evaluation

Food Security and Nutrition M&E

Frameworks

• Food security and Nutrition Conceptual

Frameworks

• Food security and Nutrition Results

Frameworks • Logical Framework Analysis (LFA) • Log Frame - Design of Food security

and nutrition projects using Log Frame

Food Security and Nutrition Indicators

• FSN indicators definition: Dietary

diversity score, Food Consumption

Score, Coping Strategy Index, Nutrition

indicators • Indicator metrics

• Linking indicators to results

• Indicator Matrix • FSN indicator performance tracking

M&E System design and M&E Planning in

FSN

• Importance of an M&E Plan • Documenting M&E System in the M&E

Plan • Components of an M&E Plan-

Monitoring, Evaluation, Data management, Reporting

• Using M&E Plan to implement M&E in a Project

• M&E plan vs Performance Management Plan (PMP)

Evaluation of Food Security and Nutrition

Programs

• Determining evaluation points from

results framework • Components of evaluations:

implementation and process evaluations.

• Performance evaluation process

• Evaluation findings sharing and dissemination

Impact Assessment of Food Security and Nutrition Programs

• Introduction to impact evaluation • Impact evaluation methods: Double

difference, Propensity score matching


Diploma in Proposal Writing and Fundraising

Getting funding for a project is not just a matter of luck, but a matter of learning a few skills and

improving them each time one pens down to write a proposal. The approach that one takes to sell an idea

will determine if the funds will be granted or not. The whole project should be very persuasive to woe the

funder to your side. It is like a beautiful girl who has many suitors asking for her hand into friendship, the

best suitor normally emerges the winner all factors kept constant.

Those who fund projects want to invest in projects that will solve a specific problem produce tangible

benefits with lasting effects and meet the urgent need if it is a crisis situation. It is very important also to

understand the funder and what the funder specializes in funding. There are organizations which deal with

different sectors only or majorly, for example health, education, shelter, food and the girl child. The

biggest challenge facing most of these organizations is lack of adequate appropriate in-house capacity to

attract the right donors to the organization. With the right skills and capacity, there are thousands of

donors available to fund projects out there. However many organizations, unfortunately, are still

grappling with key fundamentals issues such as; where are the donors?

Topics: It will cover the following topic areas:

• Fundraising tips and Project Background

• Writing an Organizational Background

• Project Planning and Design and Writing a problem Statement

• Formulating a goal and Smart Objectives

• Developing Activities and Work plan

• Writing about Project Management and Monitoring and Evaluation

• Risks and Assumptions, Expected Outcomes and Impact

• Developing a Log Frame

• Developing a Project Budget

• Online Fundraising Tips

• Developing a Fund-Raising Strategy for your Organization


Diploma in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management

The Diploma in Procurement and Supply Chain Management offers students a deep understanding of the

world of procurement, supply chain management, business to business marketing among others. This

sector of business is a field that involves managing the practice of buying and selling goods. The

importance of this sector is just beginning to become evident, as it is becoming prevalent and understood

that the selling and buying practices of a corporation can detrimentally or positively affect is economic

growth. It is important that companies continue to keep overhead costs down to promote profit; thus,

leading to increased demand for professionals in this field.

A diploma in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management will allow students to garner an education that is

focused on economic development and business management skills. To have within this field students

will be trained in business development and strategies related to growth as well. Purchasing involves

strategic decision making and problem-solving skills. To develop this skillset, those studying purchasing

will take classes regarding sociology and economy to help guide them through this factor.

Modules

• Introduction to Purchasing and Supply Chain Management • Research Methods • Financial and Cost Accounting • Principles of Negotiations

• Supply Chain Management • Stores Management and Stock Control

• Quantitative Methods • International Purchasing and Supply Management • Principles of Logistics Management

• Purchasing Strategies • Purchasing and Supply Law


Diploma in Security Management

Course Overview

The Diploma in Security Management course gives you a broad understanding of how security theory works with best

practice information. Designed to add a formal qualification to some existing knowledge, you will learn how to form

successful security initiatives in the workplace. Learners will explore a host of theoretically founded concepts, from

your own ideas and experiences to scenarios related to the workplace, identifying issues and understanding ideas about

the risks, to causes and prevention of crime. This course provides learners with an introduction to key ideas,

techniques and issues central to professional security management. Learners will gain an understanding of policy, best

practice and legislation associated with security management principles, including health and safety, asset protection

and information security. It is designed for all who have experience in security management and who now wish to

achieve professional recognition and gain an accredited security qualification

Modules

Module 1 Basic Security and Security Threats

Unit 1: Security: Meaning and Approaches

Unit 2: Forms of Security I

Unit 3: Forms of Security II

Unit 4: Forms of Security III

Unit 5: Simulation in Security Planning and Management

MODULE 2: SECURITY THREATS

Unit 1: Meaning & Types of Security Threat I: Natural Threats

Unit 2: Meaning & Types of Security Threat II: Manmade Threats

Unit 3: Information Warfare as a Security Threat

Unit 4: Arms Production and Proliferation as a Potential Threat to Security

Unit 5: War as a Security Threat

MODULE 3 SAFETY MEASURES IN SECURITY SITUATIONS

Unit 1: Safety Measures to Management of Natural Threats

Unit 2: Safety Measures to the Management of Manmade Threats I

Unit 3: Safety Measures to the Management of Manmade Threats II

Unit 4: Civil Security: Meaning and Approaches I

Unit 5: Civil Security: Meaning and Approaches II

MODULE 4 INTELLIGENCE IN SECURITY MANAGEMENT

Unit 1: Meaning of Intelligence

Unit 2: Intelligence Collection and Disciplines

Unit 3: Intelligence Analysis and Evaluation

Unit 4: Counter Intelligence

Unit 5: Data Mining and Automated Data Analysis

Diploma in Value Chain Development

Course Overview

This course combines value chain analysis and

market based solutions (MBSs) to cater for the

requirements of business and enterprises. Value

chain analysis helps in the identification of

markets, relationship between firms, and

challenges that hinder organizational growth.

MBS is made possible with the collaboration of

markets and private sector in addressing the

challenges of value chain. Therefore this course

is anchored by the goal of equipping participants

to the development of sustainable value chains.

Course Objectives

By the end of the six month course the learner

should be able to;

• Determine value chain approach

importance

• Learn value chain principles that

enhance organizational competitiveness

• Understand market development

foundations and promotion of value

chain

• Determine the needs of the market and

identify constrains

• Understand stakeholders roles in value

chains

• Establish strategies, interventions, and

methods in development of value chain

Course Modules

Introduction to Value Chain Development

• Value chains concepts

• Functions of value chains

• Significance of value chains • Limitations of value chains

Value Chain Project Design Overview

• Selection and Analysis of value chain

• MBS facilitation identification

• Market-based solutions assessment

• Collaboration structuring and

performance monitoring

• Practical examples of value chains in

agriculture

Value Chain intervention concept and its

relationship to

• Value chain finance

• Partnerships with lead firms

• Enabling environments • Local economic development

Risk Identification and Management in Value

Chains

• Framework of Risk management

• Techniques of the risk management Strengths & Constraints Analysis in Value

Chains

• Analysis of End market

• Governance of Value chain

• Inter-firm relationships

• Sustainable Solutions

Market Linkages in Value Chain

• Types of market linkages


Diploma in Public Health in Humanitarian Crises

Course Overview

Among the greatest challenges to ensuring the health of populations are natural and manmade

catastrophes. Tsunamis, hurricanes and tornadoes—some of which are driven by long-term

climate change—have displaced millions in recent years. Armed conflicts continue to destroy

communities, wreaking havoc on food, sanitation, and supply chains, and propelling survivors

into fragile refugee camps and crowded urban areas. Increasingly, humanitarian responders are

also asked to promote health systems development in fragile states and post conflict scenarios.

Across all continents, there is a critical need for technically competent public health

professionals who understand the global dynamics of acute and complex emergencies, including

the continuum from prevention and risk reduction to emergency response, and the transition to

development. Participants for this course will be equipped with the most up-to-date needs of

international humanitarian organizations and acquire the skills necessary to succeed in complex

emergencies, fragile states and post conflict environments.

Thematic Areas

• Humanitarian Disasters and Public Health

• Humanitarian Actors and coordination

• Water sanitation and Hygiene

• Livelihoods and food security in humanitarian crises

• Nutrition and humanitarian crises

• Management of diseases in Humanitarian Crises

• Health care in Humanitarian emergencies

• Shelter in Humanitarian setting

• Protection of displaced populations; human rights and Human law

• Emerging risks, challenges and opportunities for future Humanitarian emergencies


Diploma in Education in Emergencies

Course Overview

Conflicts, disasters caused by natural hazards and pandemics keep millions of children out of

school and the numbers are rising. In crisis-affected countries, school-age children are more than

twice as likely to be out of school as their peers in other countries.

Education is a critical component of emergency response. Children need continuous access to

quality education opportunities to stay safe and learn effectively. It is essential that those

responding to crises have the knowledge and technical expertise to appropriately plan for and

implement education in emergencies interventions. To contribute to building this capacity we are

offering training on.

The topics to be covered include the following;

• Introduction to education in emergencies

• Education and fragility

• Challenges in emergencies and reconstruction

• Disaster and risk reduction

• Planning and implementation of education in emergencies

• Affected populations/beneficiaries

• Education policy and coordination

• Access and quality learning environments

• Capacity building in emergencies for educational personnel

• Prevention of conflict and preparedness for disaster


Diploma in Managing People and Projects in Humanitarian Emergencies

Course Overview

Effective responses to complex emergencies require exceptional management skills. Managing people and projects can be difficult at the best of times, but being able to deliver quality outputs on time and under pressure is even more crucial during the chaos and stress of a complex emergency.

The Diploma course focuses on the theoretical and practical application of Disaster Management,

management tools, techniques, and approaches in the field, and on the nature of working in humanitarian response.

Course outline

Module One: Project Management in Emergencies • Leadership and Group Decision Making • Conflict • Communication • Grants and Finance Management Module two: Introduction to Project and Disaster Management • Nature and impact of Emergencies • Leadership Communication and Problem-solving • Leaders and Stress Management • Conflict Management • Fundamentals of Project Management • Managing Groups and Teams • Leading People and Organizations • Effective Leadership and Management Principles Module Three: Emergency and Disaster Management • Impacts of Humanitarian Crises • Assessment of Crisis Management Capacities • Remedies for Reducing Vulnerabilities and Building Resilience • WASH in emergencies Module 4: Leadership and Management of people in Humanitarian Contexts • Introduction • Fundamental Principles of International Humanitarian Law Introduction • Natural Disasters and Complex Emergencies • Information Management and the Humanitarian Context • Humanitarian Needs Assessments • Basic terms & Concepts


Course Overview

Diploma in Environmental Studies

The prime consideration of man as the most intelligent being on this planet is to utilize and conserve

the existing natural resources for sustainable development. The process requires continued

understanding by man of the biotic and the abiotic conditions and their interrelationships. The

pressure on natural resources for fuel and timber and on land in general, for crops and pasture, has

led to forest recession, soil erosion, desertification and water-catchment degradation – all of which

combine to impair the land and water resources.

The approach to education and training must accordingly be re-oriented. The emphasis needs to shift

from a narrow base to a broad base so as to effect integration. The main objective is to produce

resource conservationists and managers who are multi-disciplinary in approach and can view the

management of natural resources holistically. Emphasis is placed on an ecological approach relative

to the conservation and management of natural resources.

Course Modules

• Development Studies

• Principle of Environmental Science

• Fundamentals of Sustainable Community Development

• Principles of Environmental Planning and Management

• Global Warming and Climate Change

• Education For Sustainable Development

• Culture and Environmental Conservation

• Waste Management Planning

• Urban Ecology and Pollution

• Environmental Risk and Hazard Management

• Coastal Marine Resources Management

• Arid and Semi-Arid Lands Development


Diploma in Peace and Development Studies

Course Overview

There is no single way of understanding peace – there are as many ways of making peace as there are diverse people and cultures. Sustainable development is threatened by insecurity and

violence, encouraging wider engagement in the fields of peace and development in working to

build stability and resilience. The course investigates debates about the origins and nature of conflict and explores a range of approaches to conflict resolution. Contemporary cases of conflict

and responses to these are examined, as are the connections between peacebuilding and

development. Participants will further examine theories of economic and political development

and explore contemporary strategies and practices of development.

This program introduces participants to key debates about conflict resolution, peacebuilding

and processes of economic and political development. A prime objective of the course is to

provide individuals with expertise in peacebuilding and development issues and to provide

informed and committed personnel to contribute effectively in these areas at a professional level.

Modules

• Theorizing Development

• Civilian Protection • Security, conflicts and development

• Developing and managing projects

• Conflict studies • Conflict Resolution: Models and Applications

• Social and Cultural Dimensions of Conflict and Peace

• Gender conflict and development • Natural resources conflict

• Power and Politics

• Migration, refugees and Conflict

• Peace and Disarmament • Disaster management

• Dissertation


DIPLOMA IN AGRIBUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Background

This Agribusiness course has been developed to assist farmers and aspiring farmers to develop skills

and knowledge in the agricultural sector including business management skills for agribusiness.

Target audience

This course is suitable for farmers, aspiring farmers and even agribusiness organizations. It is also

suitable for students who want to get qualification certificate in the agribusiness.

Objective of the course

By the end of the course the learner should be able to:

• Acquire skills for managing agribusinesses

• Acquire knowledge of supply chain management in agribusiness, business and strategic decision

making concepts

Course content

Module 1

Agribusiness management: scope, functions, tasks • The business of agribusiness • Managing the agribusiness • Economics for agribusiness managers Module 2 Agribusiness Management: organization and scope • The organization of an agribusiness • International agribusiness

Module 3 Marketing Management for agribusiness • Strategic market plan • The marketing mix • Tools for marketing in agribusiness Module 4 Financial management for agribusiness • Understanding financial statements • Analyzing financial statements • Financing the agribusiness • Tools for evaluation operating decisions • Tools for evaluating capital investment decisions


Diploma in International Humanitarian Assistance Course Overview The main aim of this training is to provide training in humanitarian action, disaster prevention, preparedness and response and thereby enhance human resource capacity for managing the humanitarian emergencies arising from natural disasters and complex emergencies worldwide. Experienced aid workers realize that their work may put them in danger, and they contribute to individual and group security by respecting sound security protocols, maintaining positive interpersonal relationships (with officials, community members, and colleagues), and collecting and sharing relevant information. In sum, the consummate humanitarian worker combines compassion, commitment, and integrity with technical proficiency in promoting the delivery of the most appropriate, evidence-based, and up-to-date preventive and curative health services—a tall order in what are often very challenging environments

The objectives of the course are:

• To provide volunteers and professionals from a wide variety of backgrounds with extensive insight into the needs of refugees and internally displaced people in acute and chronic settings and equip them with the awareness, understanding, and skills that are essential for effective service in a humanitarian crisis,

• To enable humanitarian workers to function effectively, both as individuals and members of a team, in acute and chronic situations of conflict and disaster,

• To promote cooperation and dialogue between international, governmental, and non- governmental agencies involved in humanitarian action (assistance and protection),

• To evaluate interventions and identify examples of good practice, • To examine ways in which humanitarian crises can be anticipated and prevented. • To create a more effective synergy between emergency humanitarian interventions and

programs promoting sustainable development.

Course Modules • Introduction to Humanitarian Emergencies • Humanitarian Assistance and Protection – Historical and Contemporary Perspectives • Roles and Agendas of the Major Stake Holders • Emergency preparedness and strategic planning • The role of the Media • Humanitarian Ethics and Codes of Conduct • Gender issues; vulnerable groups in displaced populations • Peacekeeping, peace-building and peace-making • Exit strategies in humanitarian assistance programs



Diploma in Livelihoods and Food Security

Course Overview

The overall objective of Food Security & Livelihoods (FSL) interventions is to ensure sustainable food and economic

security for populations vulnerable to political, socioeconomic, climatic and health shocks. This course explains the

concepts of food and nutrition, malnutrition, food security and livelihoods. Understanding these concepts is important

to assess the nutrition situation, design and implement programs, investments and policies that address nutrition

problems, and evaluate the nutritional outcomes of programs, investments and policies.

The course is designed to assist professionals from a variety of sectors (agriculture, livestock, fisheries, health, rural

development, education, social protection) that are involved in designing and implementing nutrition-sensitive

programs, investments and policies. This includes professionals working for development partners (i.e., international

organizations, donor agencies, non-governmental organizations), for national governments or as independent

consultants.

Modules

Module one; Introduction to livelihoods and food security

• Introduction and Definition of Terms

• Vulnerability to Food and Nutritional Insecurity

• Dimensions of Food Security

• Factors Associated with Food and Nutrition Security (1)

• Food Security Monitoring Systems

• Outcomes of Food and Nutrition Insecurity and Coping Strategies

Module Two; Nutrition and food Security

• Agricultural Approaches for Creating Food Security

• Intervention during Chronic Food Insecurity

• Food Policies and Food Balance Sheets

Module Three; Livelihoods and food Security in emergencies

• Assessment of Food Security in Emergencies

• Human Rights Based Approaches

• Nutrition Interventions in Emergencies

• Health Interventions in Emergencies

• Food Security and Livelihoods Interventions

Module Four; Nutrition in Emergencies

• Introduction to Nutrition in Emergencies

• Common Nutrition Related Problems in Emergencies

• Causes of Malnutrition in Emergencies

• Vulnerability and Targeting in Emergency

• Methods of Nutrition Assessment in Emergency (1)

• Nutrition Information Systems in Emergencies


DIPLOMA IN PRODUCTION AND OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT

Course Overview

Production and Operations Management (POM) is to introduce you to the field of production and Operations

Management. The field of POM is dynamic, and very much a part of many of the good things that are happening in

business organizations. Generally, the subject matter represents a blend of concepts from industrial engineering, cost

accounting, general management, marketing, quantitative methods and statistics. Production and Operations

Management activities, such as forecasting, choosing a location for an office or plant, allocating resources, quality are

core activities of most business organizations.

MODULE 1

Unit 1 Production and Operations Management

Unit 2 Operations Strategy

Unit 3 Forecasting in Production and Operations Management

Unit 4 Process Management

Unit 5 Job Design

Module 2

Unit 1 Management of Technology

Unit 2 Site Selection

Unit 3 Supply Chain Management

Unit 4 Inventory Management

Unit 5 Aggregate Planning

Module 3

Unit 1 Linear Programming (LP)

Unit 2 Material Requirements Planning

Unit 3 Just-In-Time System

Unit 4 Project Management

Unit 5 Productivity

Module 4

Unit 1 Work Methods

Unit 2 Work Measurement

Unit 3 Learning Curves

Unit 4 Total Quality Management

Unit 5 Maintenance and Reliability



DIPLOMA IN MONITORING, EVALUATION, RESEARCH AND LEARNING

Course Overview

The key to achieving organizational goals comes from determining and understanding the real needs and

wants of target markets, to optimize delivery of desired outcomes more effectively and efficiently. MERL

should be a continuous process that is integrated into any business or development program. MERL brings

learning to the early stages of project implementation in a rigorous, empowering, and flexible way. It applies

proven monitoring, evaluation, and analytic techniques to increase effectiveness systematically. MERL guides

programs in testing key program adaptations to inform how best to achieve desired results – potentially at

lower cost. This includes focusing feedback loops on specific aspects of the project, and may also include

using advanced statistical methods to reduce required sample sizes and the use of tools that can support rapid

data collection – cell phones and tablets for survey implementation, SMS and IVR technology for remote data

collection, and geospatial imagery from satellites.

Course Objectives

• Collect relevant, actionable data to support adaptive management/data-driven decision making and to

measure the impact of our programs

• Appropriately leverage technology to improve the efficiency, quality, and accessibility of data collected

• Ensure monitoring and evaluation findings are effectively utilized and applied to design and improve

programs

• Promote/support the design, implementation and utilization rigorous and ethical research that improves

program delivery and expands evidence

• Share our learning with our staff, our program participants, local stakeholders, and the broader

development community and policymakers

Course Modules

1. Introduction to Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning

2. Frameworks and MERL Cycle Frameworks and approaches

3. Data Collection and Management

4. Use of Data obtained from monitoring and Evaluation for decision making and Management issues

5. Enhancement and use of M&E data for project management


Assignments

There are four assignments (continuous assessment tests), a research paper and one examination to be

offered at the end of the course. Assignments account for 40%, research paper accounts for 30% while

Examination accounts for 30% of the final mark. Upon completion of the course, you shall be issued with

a Diploma Certificate and a course transcript.

Course Completion

Certificate and Transcripts will be sent after the successful completion of the course.

Course Duration: 26 weeks (6 months)

Organizers: Action Africa Institute

Target Region: Global

Course Fee: USD 400

Language: English

FORMAT: Web-based and Distance Learning facilitated

GENERAL COURSE CONTACT:

Email:[email protected]

Website: www.actionafricainstitute.org

Tel no: +254 111 625 116

WhatsApp +254727616783